This film is based
on the events surrounding
1990's 'War Against Organized Crime'
announcement.
All names of institutions and people
are fictitious.
May 1961, apprehension of gangsters
August 1980, Samchung Prison Camp
President Roh declared war
against organized crime
October 13, 1990, Busan
that's impairing our society,
and do everything
in his power as the President
to expel them from this country.
I am formally declaring war against
organized crime and
within my constitutional power
Do you admit to embezzling
millions of dollars?
What's your connection
to Kim Pan-ho?
Move aside!
What's your relations with yakuza?
Mr. Choi!
A comment please!
Questions later!
Head of Busan crime syndicate
Choi Ik-hyun was arrested today.
He is charged with threatening and
embezzling from hotel construction companies.
According to the prosecution,
he threatened the head of
accused of kidnapping,
and assaulting
Choi is known to be the real boss
of the syndicate, and in May of 1987
He's captured on tape of performing
a ritual that solidifies his ties to yakuza,
and have amassed
great power over the years.
The prosecution is investigating
Choi's background in depth
to build their case
with additional charges.
NAMELESS GANGSTER
Rules of the Time
Hold still.
I'm getting wet.
1 week ago, Busan Dongbang Hotel
welcome, boss.
Please, don't kill me.
Afternoon, boss.
Enough, bring him out.
Mr. Kim!
Son of a bitch
Please, let me go!
Don't kill me!
Go get that fucker!
Fucking asshole!
Stop right there! You fuck!
Was the hotel built for a good night sleep?
It's for the casino, ain't it?
If they take half,
what am I left with?
Forget it.
I'm gonna go to the police.
Mr. Hur, that won't solve anything.
You'll still need the muscle
if you're gonna maintain the casino.
Don't I know that?
But how could they mess up
their partner like this?
Look at this!
Just look at this bruise!
He's not the only gangster in town,
and I'm to blame for
getting in bed with you.
Shit, putting me
in an awkward position
why did he do it?
I was damn sure right then.
We've known each other
for a long time,
so I didn't think much of it,
but I didn't realize how big
a criminal he was.
Say hello.
This is prosecutor Jo.
- Mr. Prosecutor.
- Petty gangster.
Answer me with yes or no
to my questions. Got that?
Yes.
- Can you write?
- Yes.
Write down
your involvement
in kidnapping, and assaulting
of Hur Sam-sik,
and every crime
you committed in your life,
in clean, legible letters.
When and why you became a gangster
and how you became the boss
Mr. Prosecutor,
I, I think
there's a misunderstanding,
but I'm not a gangster,
you hear?
Do I look like
a violent gangster?
I was a civil servant,
a respectable one at that.
- Open it.
- Yes, sir.
Huh? For what?
What are you doing?
Fucking shit!
Civil servant?
Motherfucker!
If you forget something
I know about,
or lie in your confession
even in the slightest,
I'll leave the rest
to your imagination.
Done.
March 1982, Busan Customs Office
There's really nothing inside.
Ah, here he is.
Thanks for coming.
What is all this?
This is fish food?
I know the world is a better place,
but fish eats ginseng now?
And wear gold watches apparently.
Let's go inside.
Please, wait a moment.
Actually, supervisor Park
in management is my family.
I'll look the other way
since you're family with Park,
but make sure
this doesn't happen again.
Of course, I'm sorry.
This is the entire Inspection team.
The four of us must inspect
the entire Busan Harbor.
Do you know how hard that is?
Just the four of us,
all this
we're so overworked
we're done, let's go.
One moment.
This isn't much,
but have a drink on me.
Please don't do this,
you really don't need to do this.
We're all family here.
Keep it down.
How could you do this to
another civil officer?!
You're completely deranged!
Did you see it?
- That's why I brought you in!
- What did you see?
- What's going on?
- Let's stay out of it.
What's going on outside?
We're fucked.
That woman reported to the prosecution,
it's blowing up.
Shit
what's that?
It's nothing.
You idiots
Drop one notch, will you?
I'm off, don't work too hard.
- Good bye, sir.
- See you tomorrow.
Get inside.
Sit.
Take it easy
Okay, hold still.
Come on, hurry up.
Get on with it! Hurry!
Sit up!
Careful
Here it is.
Why is this so big?!
Be quiet!
Keep it down!
Pack it up.
Come, sit down.
Thank you.
I hear you're an athlete?
Yes, sir.
Where will you start the family
with my sister?
Ah, there's a small room
in the dojo I work at
we'll go from there.
We may look like
we don't have much.
But us, Choi family from Gyeong-ju,
is a very noble family.
Even today, many successful people,
from prosecutors,
judges to generals,
all the top brass in Korea
are from our family.
Yes, I've heard many stories.
Let's see
Here, take this.
Mortgage a house with it and
where is it
And this is wedding gift.
No, sir, I can't accept this.
Go on, take it!
Okay, thank you.
What a day!
How did I ever live
without a brother
Took years to save that money
Kids, say hello,
this is your new uncle.
- Hello.
- Hi there.
This is Joo-han, our family's only son!
Choi Joo-han!
You watch,
he'll become something!
He's here, he's here.
What do we do?
Just be quiet.
Ah, you're here.
Did you take care of it?
Yeah, it's done.
Alright.
Let's drink first.
Ik-hyun,
as you may have heard,
one of us from Inspection Department
should receive the noose as well.
Then who'll get it?
For everyone's sake,
I wish I could do it myself,
but I'm the chief,
it may cause problems upstairs
by doing so
So I thought we'd choose by
least amount of family members.
What do you think?
How many kids you got?
I got 3 sons and 2 daughters.
Ik-hyun, what about you?
I got 2 daughters and a son.
But I got 2 young unwed sisters.
Then you can count in my grand folks,
Let's just drink for now.
Come on, raise your glass.
- Let's drink.
- Yeah, drink!
I know this is dirty business,
but just give him 20 grand,
that's the only way for you.
His neck is on the line too,
why would he accept it
at this time?
So you gotta be coy about it.
Why don't you look
into his brother,
I heard his surgery bill's
astronomical.
Make sure it's enough
to stuff his fat ass with it.
another 5 for the transfer,
now what?
Fuck, was I the only one
who took bribes?
Hurry, hurry, let's go!
Let's go, now.
What are you doing?
- We had some work to do
- what kind of work at this hour?
I wasn't notified of anything.
- It's done.
- Yeah, we're done.
Look here.
What are you doing?
You shit!
What the, son of a bitch!
You fucking bitch!
Over here! Over here!
Stop, you shit!
Back up, back up!
- You said no one's here!
- I told you to hurry up!
- Move out of the way!
- What are you waiting for?!
Just step on it, go!
Stop fucking right now!
Who the fuck were they?
Open it.
This is fucking nuts
Those bastards.
Supervisor Jang,
why is this a problem?
Who in the world will claim that
he's the owner of 10kg heroin?
But what if,
who knows what will happen?
Mr. Jang, seriously!
We have to do this.
Then I'll wrap the noose
around my neck with my hands.
Seriously?
No, no.
It's a terrible idea.
Okay, let's be completely
frank about this.
What's so wrong about
selling some dope to the Japs?
I mean, really.
How many years were we
slaves to those fucking monkeys?
Huh? How many?
About 30 years.
Honestly, it would be disservice
NOT to export this,
let them get high
and fuck themselves up,
I wish they'd all die, frankly.
This is patriotism!
We've to rise above Japan
somehow, right?
Am I right?
I agree with you.
Then how about
I know a gangster
who has ties with yakuza.
Ah, really?
No, no, no.
This really is a bad idea
Come.
It's been a while.
I'm sorry for being late,
I was held up.
Don't worry.
Pleasure to meet you,
I'm Choi Ik-hyun.
I am Choi Hyung-bae.
Let's go.
Yes, sir.
Alright, let's talk business.
Mr. Choi.
Yes.
From what I can tell,
this is a stolen property,
how would you
deal with backlash?
Let's do it this way.
I'll be responsible for everything,
$3,000 per kilo,
I'll cover the transportation,
it's half of street value.
What do you think?
Okay, it's a deal.
By the way, Mr. Hyung-bae!
Look at me,
shouldn't have called you that.
I'm sorry, really.
I don't know
what to call you.
What should I call you?
Whatever's easy for you.
Oh, then, just Hyung-bae?
Just call me Mr. Choi.
Ah, sure, Mr. Choi!
Excuse me for asking
but which Choi are you?
It's Choi from Gyeong-ju.
And clan?
Choong-ryul clan.
I knew it.
I knew Hyung-bae
belonged to our family!
Gyeong-ju Choi, Choong-ryul clan,
Yes.
Look! I'm like your
great, great grandfather!
I'm 35th generation
of the same clan!
Ik-hyun, you drank too much.
Enough of this.
I knew this would happen.
The moment I saw you,
you got the same
head shape and all.
Same physique too.
What's your father's name?
It's Choi Moo-il.
Moo-il, Choi Moo-il?
Did he ride the tuna boat
until a few years ago?
That's right.
I got you! You little prick!
I know your father
all too well!
Show some respect
to your grandpa!
Shouldn't you bow
to your elderly?
Go on, take a bow!
Dont just stare!
Take a bow!
What's with you!
What're you doing!
Hey, stop it!
Please, no more!
Enough.
Stop it.
Hey mister, why are you
talking shit during business?
Why are you so late?!
Shouldn't you come
right away when I call?
This is your Daebu, he helped me out
so much when I was on the boat.
He's a prominent man,
who's very well connected,
so treat him with
utmost respect,
you hear me? Got it?
Yes.
What are you waiting for!
Go take a bow!
I apologize in his behalf, Daebu.
No, don't worry.
That's it.
Good.
Why don't you check?
I'm sure everything's there.
And I sincerely apologize
for the other day.
No worries.
It's okay!
No need to get worked up.
It happens.
Do you have any plans for tonight?
Would you join me for a dinner?
Yeah? Let's do that.
I should buy you a dinner, aren't I?
The deal worked out and all.
- Shall we go then?
- Alright.
Only dinner though?
Ah, Chang-woo!
This is my deputy.
If you have anything to take care of,
feel free to call him.
Take a bow.
Please to meet you.
I'm Park Chang-woo.
Ah right, we met the other day,
didn't we?
If you're not busy,
come eat with us.
Sure, come.
Take the boys back.
- Good night, boss!
- Take care, boss!
Early morning dew on the petal
Hyung-bae, when I first saw you,
don't take this the wrong way,
it was like falling in love
with a woman at first sight.
I felt electricity run over my body,
it was that feeling.
Who knew we had someone
so prominent in the family?!
You're too kind.
I'm not at all
You are too.
Hyung-bae,
I see you taking those pills,
what are they for?
Are you sick?
It's just painkillers.
My leg's busted.
Got hurt in a fight?
It's not that. I was sent
to the Samchung Prison Camp.
It got messed up
by fucking MPs there.
You went through a lot,
haven't you?
Hyung-bae, you don't need to worry
about anything anymore.
I'm here for you now.
I got bureaucrats
and civil officials
in the palm of my hand.
Ah, Chang-woo!
You can really sing!
Beautiful voice!
Do you practice at home?
Let's see.
Have some pocket money!
Thank you very much.
Chang-woo,
let's go pay our water bills.
Manager Choi!
What the
Ah, chief Jo.
Whoa, what are you doing here?
I could ask you the same.
I want to introduce someone.
This is someone
I worked with,
didn't I tell you about
a funny colleague the other day?
Ah, is this him?
So pleased to meet you!
How do you do,
I'm Choi Ik-hyun.
Let me pour you all
a drink.
- Sure, sure.
- Please take this.
Heard so much about you.
So nice to meet you all.
Thank you.
- What an interesting fella.
- Let's all raise our drinks!
Cheers!
Gents, please take
good care of the chief.
He may not be the prettiest,
but depth of his compassion is huge.
Like his dick.
What's with you?
Are you drunk?
I'm not drunk.
You know how fun I can be.
This bastard's drunk.
Go away quietly
if you had your drink.
I better do
what I'm told.
I'll be on my way then.
Leaving?
Gents, please take care of chief Jo,
I mean Mr. Jo Bong-goo,
buy him nice meals,
and get his rocks off too,
he likes that.
What's this asshole
yapping on about!
Have you gone mad?
What, did I said something wrong?
Don't you like
good ol' in-and-out?
Should I treat you
to a whore today?
You fucking shit!
Don't fucking hit me, asshole!
I'll kill you!
Who the fuck are you?
You son of a bitch!
You son of a bitch!
Am I still your bitch?!
Whatcha looking at, you fucks!
There's no business quite like it.
With a good spot,
it'll run itself.
You're saying it's good money
with some muscle and bribes, right?
Alright! Let's do it!
Koreans go nuts
over gambling, ain't it?
What a fucking day!
Hyung-bae!
Hot-blooded men like me
should be in the military!
Life's fucked!
Fucked!!
Careful, it's hot.
It's fresh.
Sweetie,
you're embarrassing me
Very fresh.
October 14, 1990, Busan Prosecutor's Office
First of all, I'll start with
a brief on Choi's arrest.
On May 5th, 1990, 2PM,
Busan hotelier Hur Sam-sik
was kidnapped
and assaulted by Kim Pan-ho's men
at a Dongbang Hotel room
without reason and provocation.
Hur then accused Choi
as the perpetrator,
and confessed about his involvement in
hotel casinos and other gambling joints.
Busan Prosecutor's Office announced
their intention to press charges
against Choi Ik-hyun
for ordering the assault.
The prosecution is also in search of
the gang leader Kim Pan-ho,
who carried out the assault.
Reporter Kim has that story.
How many are staking out
at his girl's place?
We have 3 undercover men there.
Mr. Choi.
How are you holding up?
Let me make one call.
Well
It's Choi Ik-hyun.
Prosecutor Jo, come say hello.
This is chief prosecutor Choi,
from Seoul Prosecutor's Office,
Good afternoon,
I am Jo Bum-suk.
Prosecutor Jo,
I know Choi well because
he's a Kyung-joo Choi too,
and it's true that he's acquainted
with some gangs.
But your reasoning is that
if you know a gangster,
you're automatically guilty
by association.
Excuse me in saying so, but I know
the difference at least that much.
Then how could you investigate
this inadequately?
Choi Ik-hyun was a civil official,
an appointed figure.
Do you know Choi Hyung-bae?
You mean the gangster?
Yes, the gang boss.
That man is Choi Ik-hyun's relative.
Did you know that?
Is that so?
That's what I thought
How do you investigate
without such vital info?
Let's say Choi Ik-hyun is a gangster,
then logically he should be
associated with Choi Hyung-bae,
why'd he side with rival
Kim Pan-ho?
This is what I'm trying
to tell you.
I too investigated gangs
in my days.
My apologies, sir.
From what I'm hearing, I think Jo
made some grave errors.
We'll investigate according
to the protocol.
Shall we go for lunch?
So you're saying you have
no ties to Kim Pan-ho, right?
Yes, that's what I'm saying.
And you had no part in
assaulting and threatening Hur.
Don't change your story later.
Fine, go home for now.
But let's get one thing straight.
If there is slightest contradiction in
your story during my investigation,
I'll come after you
with everything I got,
no one will be able to protect you.
Go.
April 1985, Busan
- Bring me something cold.
- Yes, sir.
- Bring some juice here!
- Yes, how many glasses?
Two!
Oh hello, Mr. Hur.
Wait, look who it is!
Manager Choi!
What are you doing here?
Shouldn't you be
at the office at this hour?
You haven't heard, Mr. Hur.
I left the customs office
Why did you leave such stable job?
People tend to look for vocations
that's just right for them.
If you got some good business ideas,
be sure to let me in on it.
Certainly!
Good afternoon, boss.
Ah, yeah.
- Go on now.
- Yes, boss.
Who are they?
You know, they do some chores
for me now and then.
Busy?
Ah, no.
Enjoy.
Sure thing.
This is fresh!
By the way, Mr. Choi,
this may be inappropriate
for me to ask you,
but do you know any gangsters?
How could they not
make any profit,
even though it's this crowded
on a weekday?!
That's what I'm saying.
See that guy with mustache?
They're the ones
I've been telling you.
As you can see,
this place is doing very well,
but at the end of the month,
they take out various bullshit expenses,
so there's no profit, and I'm putting
more money in for maintenance.
You're such a fool.
And you didn't do
anything about it?
What am I supposed to do then?
Who brought those goons in?
Among the investors, there's a woman
who owns 40%, she's the one.
I think they partnered up with her
and siphon the profit.
What's your share?
Here he comes.
That's Kim Pan-ho,
the chief manager.
That deputy works for him.
From what I hear, he's one of
the top gangsters in Busan.
So they want to pay him off with 20 large
that he put in 2 years ago.
We're really tight.
Pan-ho was one of us.
We're the same age as well.
Even though he's not with us now,
we rose together in the same family.
I can't get involved
without justification.
Yeah? He's that tough?
You can't beat him?
Daebu, that's not it.
Justification is the problem.
There are rules even in
the gangster world.
I can kick his ass
no problem though.
Ms. Ko, isn't there fresher batch?
Bring us those.
Yes, sir. The ladies who had
that meeting are leaving.
Yeah?
Excuse me for a moment.
Ms. Ko,
you became more beautiful.
Leaving already?
I wasn't sure if the food was
to your liking.
We had a great meal
thanks to you.
Is that so?
Jong-bin, let me give you
some allowance.
My gosh,
you shouldn't do that!
Those pigs ate so much.
Sir, you're much too busy.
Why are you paying so much attention
to those women for?
She's the one who took care of
the licensing problem you had.
Would I feed anyone
who'll blow me?
Is that right?
Hyung-bae,
you mentioned justification earlier.
You and I are family.
Is there more important
justification than that?
Tell me if I'm wrong
about this, am I?
What, you're not up for it?
Sir, I don't know
what you take me for,
but I'm an upstanding
martial artist!
I shouldn't get involved
in this line of business.
Listen to yourself, just listen.
What a selfish bastard!
Would you let your child
live like you?
At the very least,
your child should live proudly.
Crazy bastard.
Welcome.
Good afternoon.
- It's this room.
- Right here?
Good afternoon!
Welcome, Mr. Hur.
Been a while.
You got here early.
Please sit down.
I'm sorry for being late.
I'm Choi Ik-hyun,
your new partner.
- This is Ms. Jung.
- Is that right?
Mr. Hur told me a lot
about you.
You're more beautiful
than what I've heard.
Fine, let me introduce you,
this is the chief manager
Kim Pan-ho.
Nice to meet you.
I heard the gist of it,
why did you make us come
all the way down here for?
What a pretty mouth
on that pretty face.
Alright.
Let me get down
to the business.
From today,
I will check the admissions,
and daily accounting reports.
I hear this place leaks money
like a bottomless barrel.
How could you run
a legit business this way?
Secondly,
in order to prevent
further complications,
I want to place
one of my men here.
Who?
This fella right here.
He's a competent man
with plenty of experience,
so he'll be a huge help
with your endeavors.
What the fuck!
I had enough of this bullshit!
You've been around much?
I don't know
who the fuck you are,
but I've had enough!
Calm down and sit down.
Who the fuck are you?
Which gang do you belong to?
I'm a black belt, sit down.
Enough.
Can't you see
the grown-ups are talking?
I'm sorry boss.
Hey, mister partner,
looks like you're old enough,
shouldn't you know
when to shut your mouth?
Scared?
Mister, I don't know
where you crawled out of,
but you should stop
for your sake.
Watch your fucking mouth, bitch!
- What the fuck!
- Are you fucking nuts?!
You're done for now.
I'll fucking kill you!
Hey! Do you know who I am?
So this is how you want it?
Assholes!
You're all finished!
Alright, they bit the bait,
just go and wait for my call.
Bastards.
Fuck off!
See them making off.
Those bastards ganging up
Sir, I could of really kicked
their asses one-on-one.
Hyung-bae,
It's all ready for you.
Chang-woo
Let's go!
Fuckers!
Assholes!
Beat them all!
Motherfuckers!
Where you going?!
Head down!
I said head down!
What the fuck's going on?!
I heard about this today.
I know this is your turf,
but also my Daebu's business.
Isn't it better for me
to have his back?
Let's do it like this.
Let's put half of our guys
in the club,
and you take care of
my guys leaving,
with severance pay.
Okay, I'll prepare some dough.
I'll talk to other owners
and get as much as possible.
But I can't allow
any of your boys here.
How can we be
under the same roof together?
Asswipe, I still got
some pride in me.
Look at you,
already using grown-up words.
Look here.
I still got pride in me too.
I'm almost 40, and
got my ass kicked
by ignorant thugs,
but I'll let it slide since
you guys are good friends.
I sincerely apologize again
for what happened earlier.
Is the female owner
your bitch?
Don't want to look bad
in front of her?
Watch your mouth, asshole.
Asshole?
Light this cigarette.
Go on.
Light it.
Woke up on the wrong side
of bed today?
Hyung-bae.
I'm not the same snot-nosed kid
who used to light your cig.
That's it.
Let's get you some bruises.
Give me a smoke.
'Resist, resist'
withstand the action,
synonyms are endured, refuse.
It just pours
out of your mouth, huh?
Do I always have to get angry
before you study?
Next.
Mr. Choi,
we need to talk.
Haven't I given you
all the top positions over to you?
And now the bookkeeping too?
Do you need anything else?
Will you calm down?
I found out that the accountant's
been stealing quite a bit.
I'm gonna shove the shit from
your mouth down your throat!
What?
Who do you think
you're fucking around with?
Stealing? Who's stealing?
You're the one doing it!
Fucking bitch,
have you gone mad?
Did you just hit me,
motherfucker?!
Fucking asshole!
You crazy bitch!
Take this, you bitch!
Take them all!
Get him!
I, um, sir
I'm a customer here, customer.
Hurry up, will you?
Slow fucks,
come over here.
Sit.
You seem younger than I am,
can you show some respect?
Shut your mouth
and sit the fuck down!
Asshole, watch it!
Watch where you put your hand!
Where's your chief?
Get me chief Kang!
Do you know who I am?
Do you know how close
I am to your chief?
Excuse me sir, could you tell me
how you know our chief?
He lives in Namchun,
doesn't he?
Yes.
You idiots, I had dinner
with him last night,
and went to the sauna together.
We did everything together,
you picked the wrong man.
Is that so
In that case
Detective Lee, apologize to him.
Now!
I'm sorry.
Have a good visit, big boss.
Big boss' got a visitation!
Have a good visit, big boss!
I think Pan-ho got his story
straight with the owner bitch.
Otherwise, how could we get
arrested together?
Is it looking bad for us?
I can take care of myself,
but you're the problem.
Pan-ho's hurt quite a bit.
He's hospitalized for 12 weeks.
Why did you have to
go that far?
Shame on him.
How could a gangster
press charges over a beat
That spineless
There are still ways to solve this,
so don't worry too much.
What have you got in mind?
May 1985, Gyeong-ju Choi Clan Gathering
Clan Member of the Month:
Prosecutor Choi Joo- dong
Ah, uncle, you're here!
Joo-dong, how have you been?
Let me introduce you,
I told you about him earlier.
This is Choi Ik-hyun,
he's one of us.
How do you do?
My name is Choi Joo-dong.
Nice to meet you,
prosecutor Choi.
Mr. Choi and you are about
so, let me see,
ah, that's right,
so your father
my brother's grandfather
his brother's grandson is Ik-hyun.
Is that so?
Yes, sir.
Sir, I think my men made a mistake
without knowing what's going on.
Let me check
and call you back.
You still don't get it.
There's nothing to check again!
Chief Kang, the quarrel between Choi
and the owner is a business dispute,
and Choi Hyung-bae and Kim Pan-ho
situation is a separate matter.
Don't you understand
what I'm saying?
You want us to take care
of them separately.
That's right.
And speaking of
Choi Hyung-bae,
won't it be better to take care of it
without charges?
They can settle on their own.
Alright, please take care of it.
Yes, thank you.
They won't be any more problems,
Daebu, the chief will take care of it.
You didn't have to
This is
As the saying goes, the gold toads are
famous for returning the favor.
Oh, they sure look loyal alright.
It's over now.
I shoved a grand for a nice dinner
for their trouble, and all of sudden,
they are oozing respect.
Those crooked bastards
Daebu
I don't trust people easily.
Got backstabbed many times.
I was imprisoned 5 times,
and it was all due to the people
who acted like my brothers.
Right, humans are
the most cunning animal of all.
So I had a huge revelation,
there's no one to trust
except my family
Godammit, Daebu.
I feel so confident
with you by my side.
I love you.
Hyung-bae.
I want us to surpass our partnership,
and become one in mind and body.
You got the muscle,
I got the brain!
We must take this chance
to become one
and create something big.
The stars are lining up
just for us!
You're right, you're right.
May 1987, Busan
To wish everyone's bright future
and prosperity!
Kanpai!
Let me formally introduce you.
This gentleman lobbied
the government for us
concerning the hotel
we invested in.
He's my Daebu.
Pleased to meet you.
I am Choi Ik-hyun.
Nice to meet you.
I am Kaneyama Zaidoku.
Thank you so much
for your help.
Expresses his gratitude
Please accept this gift.
Thank you.
Congressman Park is calling
for us downstairs.
Let's go and
get this over with.
Ah, you're here!
Let me introduce you.
This must be chairman
Kaneyama,
Choi Hyung-bae here heads
our party's Youth Movement.
What are you doing?
Be more respectful
to these great men.
Do it again.
My apologies.
He must be nervous for
seeing such important men.
This is a plaque
from the President.
For the invaluable contribution to
the successful preparation of
the 1988 Seoul Olympics,
this plaque is awarded.
Oh, and please take this souvenir,
this is called Hodori,
the official Olympics mascot.
The gold medal isn't really gold,
but this sure is!
I apprised the President of
your request for the hotel casino,
so don't worry.
We'll now commence
the historic opening ceremony.
With cutting of the tape, a new era of
Daedong Hotel and Casino will begin!
One, two, three!
Mr. Choi,
you really overdid it!
You must've finally hit it big!
Pretty?
Big time my ass.
You can't get rich off
just two casinos.
Gotta have 20 or so in Seoul
to be a big shot.
There's no end
to a man's greed.
Whatever you start,
you gotta see it through
no matter what.
Can't stop until
you reach the top.
Do you know why?
When I was a kid, my family was
the richest in town.
Tons of land too
That was real fresh
But in the era of the Liberals,
my father ran for a seat
in the parliament independently,
and lost the election and our fortune,
then died of stress.
He placed second
in the election.
Being second is worthless.
You don't get shit
for placing second.
We lived in poverty afterwards,
and I grew up rough
all because he placed second.
Then what place
are you in now?
Me? Obviously
I'm #1 in Busan.
Dunno nationally.
What about Hyung-bae?
Isn't he #1?
What are you talking about!
Hyung-bae's under me.
His only job is
to manage his boys.
He can't do shit
without my permission.
Is that right?
So you're above him?
It's not set in stone,
of course,
but I guess you could
look at it that way.
Is it really Fire truck?
I don't think so
Can't you tell? They're fakes.
Don't even look alike.
Get off the stage!
Bastard
Hey you,
do you know who I am?
Carry on.
Hey, supervisor Park!
Come over here.
Need to talk to you.
Talk about what?!
Do it later.
I need to fucking talk now.
Go on.
Come here.
Ma'am,
leave us for a moment.
Is that Fire truck?
Huh?
Is that the fucking Fire truck?!
They didn't want to come,
what can I do?
They're the same,
acrobatic and shit.
Fucking moron,
didn't you say you could get 'em?
Buddies and shit!
Fuck, they didn't want to come,
what am I suppose to do?
Then what happened
to $15,000?
I gave them the whole lot.
Fucking liar,
stop shitting in my ears.
Asshole, I've been hearing shit.
What? Heard what?
Heard you gave them 2 grand.
Then where's remaining 13?
Give me half.
What the fuck.
Be ethical about this.
Any business with money involved
should be done cleanly.
Ah, shit.
This mosquito is annoying as fuck.
Fucking prick,
you think I'm joking around?
Get me the money!
There is none,
motherfucker!
You think
I'm just playing with you?!
I'll roundhouse kick
your fucking face.
Get me the money
if you don't want the beat.
Got that?
Son of a bitch
You know,
I'm a taekwondo master!
Worthless dumb fuck
what did you just say?
Say that to my face again.
I'll shove your dick
up your fucking asshole.
Where's your manner?
Don't you greet anymore?
Afternoon, boss.
Piece of shit,
are you nuts?!
What a fucking day!
Fucking day?!
Fucking day!
That's enough, boss.
What do you think
you're doing, let go!
You're fucking done,
you hear?!
Wanna die?
Keep at it, asshole!
Boss, please.
- Let go!
- Boss, what's with you?!
Let my hand go!
- Boss!
- Let go!
What's going on!
Boss, you're here.
Oh, Hyung-bae,
this fucker!
Do you know
what he did today?
You're finished, asshole!
Daebu,
if there's a problem with the boys,
don't act out on your own and tell me.
Welcome, boss.
- What's this?
- Oh, boss.
Why is everyone
swarmed in here?
Haven't heard? Pan-ho and his men
are eyeing you and the boss,
so we're on full alert.
That doesn't make any sense!
Why would Pan-ho
order a hit on us at this time?
It's probably
because of the hotel casino,
since we're running
the hotel in their turf.
Idiot.
That's not for us to decide.
The government tells us
what to do.
Anyway, before we get
sucker punched,
we assembled so that
we could be proactive about this.
Alright, I hear you.
But withdraw for now.
You get snatched up even in
a small group nowadays.
What are you waiting for!
Disperse!
I'll consult big boss
and proceed.
Son of a
what the fuck
do you think you are?!
You take orders from Hyung-bae
but not from me?
I'll fucking
Is he upstairs?
Look here.
We're just now in business,
why'd you stir things up?
Who's gonna clean up the mess?
Daebu, a student is a student
when he studies,
and we're gangsters
when we fight.
Can't get anything done
by being chatty.
Is that for me to hear?
Hyung-bae,
let's settle this amicably, huh?
I'll go talk to Pan-ho
and hear him out.
Whether we go to war or not,
I'll take care of it.
So step out for this one.
How could you say that?
Aren't we on the same boat?
What did I work for
till now then?
What am I?
What do you think
you're doing?
Do you see yourself
as a real gangster? Huh?!
Daebu, what do you
think of yourself?
Let me ask you that.
Don't you know
what this country is like today?
It's not the time
to fight over the turf.
I'll organize a truce talk soon.
No, don't bother.
Don't worry about wrinkles on my ass
and worry about yours.
I can overlook it since I know
what's going on in the world,
but what about my boys who're
out of work because of you?
They're not smart enough to know
what's going on.
This is what I'm trying to solve.
Is this the only gig
in the world?
If another hotel pops up,
I'll make sure to hook you up
with the government.
Will this be the only tourist hotel?
The restriction's lifted now, eh?
In a few years, there'll be plenty of
casinos for everyone.
Then there will be a shortage
of people to manage them.
What a wonderful era
we're living in.
Mr. Choi, why don't we use
this opportunity to team up?
Your connections
and my muscle.
That's fresh!
Look at you
Are we still kids?
Taking sides?
Honestly, if you hand over
hotel or casino management,
would Hyung-bae let it slide?
That fuck.
Then what?
What could he do over me?
Who's making a killing
because of me?
Don't worry about
Hyung-bae, alright?
He has no choice
but to follow my lead.
Then Mr. Choi,
it's not easy for us
to get together like this,
why don't we go have a drink or two?
Another time,
I'm a little busy today.
Sure, you look busy.
Democratic Party presidential
candidate Roh Tae-woo
stated in his candidacy acceptance speech
that he wishes bright future in
- I'm back, boss.
- Yeah. Where's the room?
It's Crown Hotel just
across the street, room #706.
Alright, take the boys back.
I'll be see myself back.
Will you be okay, boss?
I'm fine.
Can't even drive outside anyway.
- Yes, boss. I'll be on my way then.
- Okay.
- Have a good night, boss.
- Go on.
Yeah? Yeah. Sure.
That's right.
So, Hyung-bae's there?
Impeach President Jeon!
Abolish the constitution!
Overthrow dictatorship!
Impeach President Jeon!
Impeach President Jeon!
Abolish the constitution!
Overthrow dictatorship!
Impeach President Jeon!
Sir, come over here.
What's going on?
Here?
Yes, boss.
What, what happened?
It's nothing.
Doesn't look like nothing!
Is it bad?
What did the doctor say?
Daebu,
could you leave us
for a moment?
Uh, sure.
I'll be back later.
- Let's go.
- Yes, sir.
We can't let
either of them slide.
I'll take care of it
since you're not well.
Find Kim Pan-ho first!
Son of a bitch!
Son of a bitch!
Where's Pan-ho?
Where's your boss?
Suck my dick.
Quite heavy.
Look at you now.
He's rather cute like this.
Where's that grin when you were
crawling up Pan-ho's back?
Getting scared over
a little beating?
Prick.
In you go.
So long.
- Killing me
- Don't get up, it's hot up here.
My back's killing me.
My back
Please let me live
Fuck, I'm too old for this shit.
What the fuck am I
doing this for? Huh?
It pains me so much.
- How is it?
- Feels nice?
Drink up,
it's good for you.
Tastes good?
Have plenty, boss.
That felt good.
I'm starved.
Let's eat and finish this.
- Sure, boss.
- What should we eat?
Should we get something
for him too?
We could finish up and go
Must be salty
- Boss, you're still fresh.
- I sure am.
Go ahead.
Hyung-bae,
I don't know what you heard
about Pan-ho and I,
but everything you heard
is not the truth.
It's not just that,
I don't know what I did
made you unhappy,
but I'm really sorry.
Then could you
call off the boys for me?
I still got kids, I don't want them
to grow up fatherless.
I made sure that won't happen,
you're not on the hit list.
Thank you.
You got plans tonight?
How about a drink with me?
Alright,
take care of yourself.
I'm off now.
Daebu,
listen to me carefully.
Don't ever step into
this world again.
Don't go around
saying shit either.
Understand?
This is your share of
the hotel casino and the night club.
and 200 in bank notes.
Is this all?
And this is
expensive ginseng
the boss prepared for you.
Since you're not all that well,
rest at home
and get well with this.
Don't worry,
my lips are sealed.
What, you got something else to say?
Sir, since it's Thanksgiving and all,
couldn't you give me some pocket money
to buy some ginseng for my folks?
That fucking piece of
He was no better
than a street pimp,
I got him to where he is
How could he do this to me?
That fucking son of a bitch!
Sir, please,
put the gun away!
Can't you get me some bullets?
I'll look into it, sir.
Please put that away.
It's been a long time, Mr. Choi!
Good to see you.
Mr. Kim,
why are you late
what's with him?
Alright, alright,
he drank quite a bit.
Be careful.
- Let's sit down.
- So drunk
I can tell you that it can't be done
without an order from the top.
Right?
That's what I think too.
Hyung-bae was always like that,
ignorant fuck.
Asshole.
We've known each other
for many years,
but it's still awkward
between us.
Let's change that from today.
Let me treat you
like a big brother.
Okay, let's do that.
Drink up.
Pan-ho,
thank you.
No one's enemy forever
in this business.
Yesterday's enemy is today's partner.
October 20, 1990
Busan Prosecutor's Office
Now that they became partners,
Choi managed to hand over
casinos for Samhwa Hotel
and Giant Hotel with ease.
To Kim Pan-ho.
This is getting better and better.
Since the government
unofficially permits casino
regardless of hotel management,
Choi had full control over it.
Powerless hotel owners like
Mr. Hur and I are just pawns,
so what are we to do?
Give 'em what they ask,
and sell when they demand.
Okay, okay.
Then where's Kim Pan-ho now?
You two were cozy
for a few years,
you should know his hideouts.
Come on, speak up.
As you know, with President's war
against organized crime declaration,
Busan Prosecutor's Office will execute
its operation to sweep 34 active gangs
with 550 members in Busan area
starting midnight Friday.
As is written
in the enforcement order,
you'll be allowed to arrest
gang members without warrant
and if met with resistance,
use of fire arms is allowed.
Mr. Choi, you gotta lay low quick.
I got it.
Stop, you shit!
Stop right there!
commenced crackdown on
organized crime
2 weeks since the announcement
of the operation.
Heads of 10 syndicates were arrested
within a day of search.
The police intends to execute 20 more
operations to incarcerate more suspects.
From what I've been hearing,
they'll continue to
investigate further.
You better lay low
for a while.
He's supposedly the most
vile prosecutor in recent memory.
The Jeollado boys are
all locked up because of him.
I've never ever met someone
who refused money.
Sir, we might get
all locked up this way.
Know what this is?
This contact list is worth
a million dollars!
They'll never lock me in.
You just watch.
Dear Lord, please console them
and always be with them.
Come to me, all you
who are wear and burdened,
I will give you rest,
said the Lord.
Please comfort these poor souls.
Please help us, Lord.
Take this.
Sir, so good to see you!
Ik-hyun, my wife dragged me
out of bed.
Your necktie is really beautiful.
Oh, is it?
Madame's wardrobe is stunning too!
When we used to live together
Ah, prosecutor Jo.
It's been a while, sir.
Say hello,
you're well acquainted, right?
Sir, nice to see you again.
Uh, nice to see you too.
I don't think I should be here,
I'll see you later.
What's with you?
This isn't right!
He's the primary suspect
in my case!
Haven't you seen the news?
I know all about it.
I think you're gravely mistaken,
I wanted to make things right.
Sure, let's drink another time.
Just the two of us.
How could you do this to me?
Who helped you out of
all the problems
This is not Bum-suk that I know.
Don't you remember?
Is this all there is to you?
How'd you become
the Attorney General this way?
Go, if you want!
You'll never get anywhere.
Alright, alright.
I'll have just one drink.
Happy?
Bastard How have you been?
How's your wife?
Dead, what's it to you?
I felt terrible, there were some things
that I couldn't tell you,
who knew
we would meet like this?
Sure, who knew, right?
I wanted to let it all out
since you already know this,
Kim Pan-ho or
whatever his name is,
that's his name, right?
I've never met the man.
From what I hear,
he's really tall.
We already know about that!
Mr. Choi, his glass' empty,
can't you see?
Ah, look how slow I am.
Here to pass the water too, sir?
Look how tense
your muscles are.
I hear it's all due to the liver.
Been stressed out lately?
You think
we're friends now?
How dare you put your hands
on a prosecutor!
Hey, Choi Ik-hyun.
You are seriously
barking up the wrong tree,
I could care less
if you're a gangster, asshole!
When I say you're a gangster,
you are one.
Keep a straight face,
don't you dare muddy the mood.
Did it really?
You must be having a hard time.
It won't look good of me
to get involved at this point in time.
But I'll look into it.
This will blow over, I'm sure.
Your kind words are
enough to comfort me.
Yes, sir.
Take care.
Tougher than I thought
what happened to the boys?
Those fuckers
Alright, I'll call back later.
Call me if something comes up.
Kim Pan-ho!
Get him!
Let go!
Kim Pan-ho in custody.
He's in custody.
Dad!
It's okay, get inside.
- Dad!
- Honey!
- Dad
- Honey.
Sit over there.
Know each other, right?
- Fucking asshole!
- Cool it!
This is all because of you!
Shithead!
- Sit down!
- Am I your pawn?! You fuck!
- Detective Kim, take him out.
- Yes, sir.
- Out, out, out!
- Will you hold still?!
I'm really tired
Really tired.
Hey, gangster.
Wait, you're not one, right?
I hear your kind is
called 'half bad-ass',
not a gangster
but not a civ as well.
Just what are you?
I'm nothing,
just an ordinary man.
Because of your petty nature,
it's hard to treat you with any respect.
Am I here to mince words?!
Huh?!
I'm sorry.
You're smart enough
to understand.
How's 15 years
for being head of gang?
Or 3 years
for contract assault?
Choi Ik-hyun,
just admit it.
I'll make sure you serve
no more than 3 years.
Good?
What?
Want 15 years instead?
No, no, it's great.
Very good, okay!
Okay.
But prosecutor Jo,
if it's not trouble
may I suggest something
more beneficial for both of us?
Go on.
When you go to the States,
you really have to study hard.
Got that?
Remember what I told you?
English is power.
That's right. When you grow up
English will help you become #1.
- And eat a lot of fish.
- Sir!
Big boss wants a word with you.
Can't you see I'm with my family?
Tell him another time.
Don't make me fuck you up
in front of them.
Where do you think you are,
you fuck!
Alright, alright, calm down!
Let go!
Sit back down.
Let's go talk outside.
Have you been busy lately?
I know everything.
Conspiring with the prosecutor
to put me inside?
What are you saying?
I was interrogated
and came out yesterday.
Sucking everything for what it's worth,
should I make you a cripple?
Hyung-bae, you got it wrong!
As you know, this investigation
was initiated by the President.
Why would I want you
locked up?
Shut your fucking trap!
If I instigated this,
why is Pan-ho locked up then?
You gotta think logically here.
Let's get through this together.
We have to help each other.
Fuck, I'm being fooled again
It's true I pretended to be on
his side to ease his mind.
Gotta buy some time, ain't it?
I really don't know
what to do
Prosecutors are kings now.
So, what's your plan?
I'm prepping to go to the States.
Got the house on the market.
Why don't you hide out
in Kobe for a bit.
It might be difficult
because of APB,
but I could try to
find you a boat.
If you're fucking with me,
your son will grow up
without a father.
Make necessary preparations,
I'll contact you.
How much longer?
Almost done.
Hello?
- Daebu, it's me.
- Yeah Hyung-bae.
Is everything ready?
Um, yes, it's all ready.
I'll send you a car,
I want you here.
Let's talk face to face.
Uh, yeah, okay.
But I
what should I do?
He wants me to come over.
Show me what you got.
Sure, it's right here.
Let's go.
Daebu
do you think you've
benefitted because of me?
I do think so.
Then how could you
conduct yourself this way?
I firmly told you to
walk away from this life.
Yes, you did.
Then let me ask you this.
I like to think that
I tried my best to help you,
did any of it
make a difference?
You've been helpful.
Then how could you
do this to me?
You sided with Pan-ho
in the first place!
I clearly told you
that's not what happened.
What do you take me for?
Why would I order
a hit on family?
That's not what I meant,
you didn't side with me
and went to him,
and made me look
like a fucking pussy,
isn't that it?
In any case,
this is the end for us.
I know you'll look out for yourself,
but be careful.
Move!
- Back up for him.
- Sure, boss.
What the hell?
We're blocked
from both sides, eh?
What do we do?
Everyone standby.
Move!
What's with them
from both sides?
Wait!
It's you
Go! Go!
Son of a bitch!
Come out, asshole!
Stop the car, asshole!
You fucking rat!
You're done, piece of shit
You're finished
Die, you fuck!
Who you think I am?!
Fucking asshole!
I won
I fucking won
He's a tremendous prosecutor.
It'd be a huge shame for Busan,
but he shouldn't be
confined to a pond.
He should be serving the country,
isn't that right?
He'll be a big help
by your side, Minister.
Ah, you're here!
Prosecutor Jo, come inside.
February 2011,
Gwachun Administration Office
Appointing Choi Joo-han as
Seoul Prosecutor's Office prosecutor.
Congratulations.
Director, he's the top graduate
this year.
From Seoul University.
- Is that right?
- Yes, sir.
Isn't he a better off at a law firm
or the courthouse?
Prosecution's no fun
these days.
- Interesting fellow, none the less.
- He sure is.
Look at this, look here,
what's wrong?
Ah, prosecutor Choi!
- Uncle, welcome!
- Good to see you.
I was at your restaurant
last week.
- You did?
- Sure.
- Why didn't you call?
- I know you're busy.
Let me introduce you,
this is prosecutor Choi, my nephew.
Where's your father?
- He's out in the balcony.
- Alright, let's go say hello.
Sir, you're out here.
Welcome.
This is chairman Park,
I mentioned earlier.
Ah, I heard so much about you.
I'm so pleased to finally meet you.
The pleasure really is mine.
We will now begin
Joon-sik's birthday bash!
Today is Joon-sik's
first birthday.
Is Joon-sik well rested?
Did he get plenty of sleep?
- Yes.
- Ah, he did?
You put him to sleep early
and what did you do?
We went to bed early.
- Huh?
- Went to bed early.
But both of you look tired,
what did you do last night?
Their faces are turning red.
Looks like I hit the spot!
Let's move on.
Smoke one.
No, I'm fine.
It's fine.
The more I think about it,
Joon-sik must be your lucky charm.
All the setbacks suddenly
washed away.
It was the same thing for me too,
once we had you.
Let me see you.
Great job.
Father, thank you,
for being patient with us.
Father
Father
Daebu